Heads of Government expressed CARICOM’s endorsement of the candidature of H.E. Albert Ramdin, Minister of Foreign Affairs, International Business and International Cooperation of Suriname, for the post of Secretary-General of the Organization of American States during the 48th Regular Meeting of the Conference of Heads of Government of the CARICOM held in Barbados from 19 -21 February 2025.
"After careful analysis of the proposals presented to the Organization of American States (OAS) for the succession in the General Secretariat, the governments of Brazil, Bolivia, Chile, Colombia and Uruguay announce our support for the candidacy of Albert Ramdin, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Suriname, to lead the organization in the period 2025-2030.
Minister Albert Ramdin, with his extensive experience in diplomacy, including his previous role as Deputy Secretary General of the OAS, is in a unique position to face the contemporary challenges for our countries, by offering a new perspective that reflects the realities and aspirations of the Caribbean and America as a whole.
This decision represents a significant step of the region towards unity, in the current geopolitical context, and also a historical opportunity for the Caribbean, which for the first time will be able to lead this important space of hemispheric integration.
The vote for the election of the new Secretary General of the OAS is scheduled for March 10."
Published on 03/04/2025 at 12:17 PM
Published 5 March 2025
"The governments of Costa Rica, Ecuador, and the Dominican Republic, members of the Alliance for Development in Democracy (ADD), express their support for the candidacy of Albert Ramdin, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Suriname, for the position of Secretary General of the Organization of American States (OAS).
This support reflects the commitment to regional unity, the strengthening of multilateralism, and the consolidation of democratic institutions in the Americas at a crucial moment for their stability and development. Minister Ramdin has the experience and knowledge necessary to lead a new stage in the OAS, promoting cooperation and solidarity among member states to facilitate dialogue and jointly address common challenges.
We wish to emphasize that regional rotation in the OAS Secretary General position is a key element to ensuring better geographical representation within the organization. This could be the first time a representative from the Caribbean leads the OAS, bringing a renewed and different vision to address hemispheric challenges in a broader, more inclusive, and effective manner."
“Minister Ramdin has not only served as the minister of Foreign Affairs, International Business and International Cooperation during my first term in office, but moreover as trusted advisor, and as a member of the Government of Suriname, whose adroit advice, guidance, and sound judgment, which he renders with calm assurance and warm wit, are highly valued. I believe that with his dedication, his adept diplomacy and innovative drive, he will be able to lead the OAS professionally and make a lasting impact.“